Distinct neural representations of different linguistic components following sign language learning.

ABSTRACT: Learning a new language is a process everyone undergoes at least once. However, studying the neural mechanisms behind first-time language learning is a challenging task. Here we aim to explore the functional alterations following learning Israeli Sign Language, a visuo-spatial rather than an auditory-based language. Specifically, we investigate how phonological, lexical, and sentence-level components of the language system differ in their neural representations. In this within-participant design, hearing individuals naïve to sign languages (n = 79) performed an fMRI task requiring the processing of different linguistic components, before and after attending an Israeli Sign Language course. A learning-induced increase in activation was detected in various brain regions in task contrasts rel

SUBMITTER: Coldham Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11876632 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature